New programme to help SMEs navigate funding options

Enterprise Nation has launched a new programme which aims to help 30,000 small businesses to better understand and navigate the world of finance and funding.

'Access to Finance' will run over twelve months and will address the full life cycle of a business from the very earliest start up loans and local enterprise funding, up to venture capital and all financing options in between.

It is designed to guide founders through why, when and how to raise funds at each juncture of the business.

It is backed by a range of organisations in the finance sector including the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), the Banking and Payments Federation of Ireland (BPFI), Sage and the three major Irish banks, Bank of Ireland, AIB and Permanent TSB.

"Money management and access to finance is one of the key areas in which small businesses constantly request support," said Emma Jones, Founder of Enterprise Nation.

"Founders want to know how and when to raise money, who can help with the process, and which funding option to select.

"Access to Finance is designed to not only demystify the process but to help educate, support and guide businesses on the right type of funding for them," she added.

More information can be found on the Enterprise Nation website.

Reporting: RTE News